Prasar Bharati CEO's appointment challenged, Delhi HC issues notice

The Delhi High Court has issued a notice to Prasar Bharati Corporation on the appointment of Rajiv Takru as its acting chief executive officer. It, however, refused to stay the appointment of Takru and allowed him to function till the time case is pending in the court.

The petition filed by AK Jain, board member (finance) who pleaded that Takru should be restrained from discharging the functions of the CEO and all decisions taken by him while on the post be quashed.

A 1979 batch IAS officer, Takru, is an additional secretary in the information and broadcasting ministry.

The court has asked the corporation to file its response within four weeks.

Takru was appointed the officiating CEO in January following the suspension of B S Lalli against whom an inquiry has been ordered for alleged financial irregularities including one relating to broadcasting rights of last year's Commonwealth Games.

Challenging his appointment, Jain pleaded that the Prasar Bharati Board has no power to appoint the CEO as it has to be decided by the government. He also said Takru, not being a permanent member of the board, is not eligible for the post.